A group of UK lawmakers has raised alarms about the growing political instability in Bangladesh, warning that the situation could potentially escalate into another “global crisis” involving the United Kingdom. The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Commonwealth (APPG) has submitted a report to UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, highlighting serious concerns about the deteriorating conditions in the South Asian nation, according to a report by The Independent.
The report accuses the interim government that replaced Sheikh Hasina’s administration in August of failing to ensure stability. It warns that the political environment in Bangladesh remains volatile, with over 2,000 documented incidents of violence. APPG has cautioned that Bangladesh’s judiciary and legal systems could be weaponized for political retribution under the current circumstances.
The lawmakers also raised concerns about the potential rise of Islamist extremism in Bangladesh following the downfall of the Hasina government. They emphasized that instability in the country could have significant implications for the UK, which is home to over 644,000 people of Bangladeshi origin, according to the 2021 census.
Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster and Implications
The report notes that Sheikh Hasina’s removal from power sparked a wave of optimism among some groups. However, evidence has surfaced suggesting that the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus is struggling to maintain order. Allegations of politically motivated lawsuits against former ministers, lawmakers, judges, academics, lawyers, and journalists have cast doubts on the credibility of the legal system.
The APPG report also highlighted the alarming number of deaths during the unrest. By the end of August, it claimed, over 1,000 individuals had been killed. Student protests and widespread demonstrations initially triggered the collapse of Hasina’s government, but the interim administration has faced ongoing security challenges, leaving parts of the country in a precarious state.
Impact on Religious and Ethnic Minorities
British lawmakers have voiced particular concern about attacks on religious and ethnic minorities during this period of unrest. They noted a troubling trend of extremist groups becoming increasingly visible and politically influential.
Tulip Siddiq’s Connection to the Crisis
The report also mentioned Tulip Siddiq, a UK Treasury minister and niece of Sheikh Hasina. It noted that the political upheaval in Bangladesh has had personal and professional implications for her, given her close familial ties to the deposed prime minister.
A Call for Urgent Action
APPG Chair Andrew Rosindell, a Conservative Party MP, emphasized that the report is part of a broader effort to raise awareness about issues impacting key Commonwealth partners. “The findings will be shared with stakeholders in Westminster, Whitehall, and beyond, including charities and organizations linked to Bangladesh and the Commonwealth,” he stated.
The report calls for an immediate halt to the use of the judiciary for political purposes and urges the interim government to prioritize human rights and the rule of law. “Failure to do so will undermine the legitimacy of the interim government,” it warned.
As Bangladesh grapples with ongoing challenges, the report serves as a stark reminder of the potential global ramifications of its internal political turmoil.
Sahadat Russell, Associate Editor, The Voice.